ln speech, we sometimes contract two consecutive words: would/will + have l'll've finished it by tomorrow. He'd've loved to have been there. not + haveShe couldn't've known about it. I wouldn't've minded doing it.

Important for listening! In informal speech, the contractions 'd (had) and 've (have) are sometimes left out in the verbs had better and have got to(see also Unit 28): You ('d) better apologise to her. You ('ve) gotta ( = got to) be joking.

1 My feet will get wet because my shoes have got holes in.2 There is no butter, but this will do instead.3 I am sure Ann would help if she could.4 How did they know we would be there?5 Adam has phoned to say he is not ready to go yet, but he will call again when he is.6 There have been four parcels delivered for you while you have been away.7 What will you do if Tom has already gone?

1 I'd bought some more coffee if _______ known _______ run out.2 The film _______ started yet, so _______ got lots of time.3 I suppose _______ closed by now, so _______ come back tomorrow.4 _______ gone if _______ been anything good on TV.5 A: _______ had that last slice of pizza. B: I told you _______ make you feel sick!

Follow up: The
lyrics to pop songs often contain contracted forms. Find lyrics to
songs you know. Which song contains the most contracted forms? Can you
say (or sing!) them all fluently?